Jockey Kayla Stra issues statement

Jock Mom Kayla Stra wants all stewards' meetings recorded

Jockey Kayla Stra, who said she was berated by state racing stewards for having her baby in the women’s jockey room at Hollywood Park, has issued a statement regarding the issue.

I would like to express my deepest gratitude towords the CHRB and numerous people in the racing community for the overwhelming support. The racing industry has always been there for me. The racetrack is my life and I have always thought of everyone as my family. Sometimes we can be hard on each other because we want to see the best in one another; and sometimes we just need support.

In some cases judgment and rulings are necessary. I understand, because I take pride in what I do and have always wanted to be a professional who people respect and young children can look up to.

After all is said and done in regards to this issue that has arisen from having my baby in then lady jocks room I hope I can just get back to being ‘one of the boys’ again.

The only request that I have of the CHRB is to seriously consider vital recording during every hearing in the stewards office as done in every other successful racing country around the world.

To further comment on what is now being said from steward Scott Chaney about a ‘misunderstanding’. His exact words to myself were ‘There are to be no babies or children in your jocks room or kitchen area anymore, anywhere. No one should be exposed to seeing a baby’s diaper changed.’

When I explained that I was still also trying to breast feed he had no more to say to me except making it clear that the jockeys are claiming to be professionals so no more children were allowed to be present around our quarters.

I am truly disappointed that this has become such a big issue but I do hope to forgive and forget.